Legumes & beans

Luncheon slices, meatless

FDC 169066slice, thin (14 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 51 · -12 vs Legumes & beans median

Meatless luncheon slices score 51 of 100, a Fair rating that ranks 43rd of 60 in the legumes and beans category, with protein at an excellent 36% DV and vitamin E at 20% DV standing out, plus iron at a good 10% DV.

Made as a plant-based deli substitute, these thin slices work in sandwiches the way ham or bologna would, with a single thin slice (14 g) providing that protein at 189 calories per 100 g. Sodium is the clear caveat, flagged high at 711 mg per 100 g, and since the score trails the legumes category's median of 63, reduced-sodium peanut butter is a higher-ranked plant-protein alternative worth a look.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around luncheon slices, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 17.8 g · 38%Carb 4.4 g · 9%Fat 11.1 g · 53%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories189 kcal9%
Total fat11 g14%
Saturated fat1.3 g7%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium711 mg31%
Carbohydrate4.4 g2%
Dietary fiber1.1 g4%
Sugars2.2 g
Protein18 g36%
Potassium200 mg4%
Calcium41 mg3%
Iron1.8 mg10%
Magnesium23 mg5%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E3 mg20%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 169066

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Protein36% DV
Vitamin E20% DV
Iron10% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the legumes & beans median

Nutrient density51 vs 63 median
Protein / 100 g18 vs 21 median
Fiber / 100 g1.1 vs 5.4 median
Sodium / 100 g711 vs 203 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Peanut butter, reduced sodiumDensity 52 vs 51Peanut butter with omega-3, creamyDensity 53 vs 51Frankfurter, meatlessDensity 53 vs 51

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Meatless luncheon slices are a plant-based deli alternative, typically made from soy or wheat protein and formed into thin slices meant to stand in for bologna or ham on a sandwich. They're eaten cold straight from the package layered with cheese, lettuce, and condiments, or pan-fried briefly to crisp the edges and warm them through the way you might with a breakfast sausage patty. The texture is firmer and denser than sliced deli meat, and the flavor is usually mild and slightly savory, meant to be dressed up with mustard, pickles, or other sandwich condiments rather than eaten plain.

Keep the package sealed and refrigerated, using opened slices within the timeframe printed on the label since this is a perishable product like deli meat. A 100g portion has 189 calories and stands out for protein at 36% of the Daily Value (17.8g), along with vitamin E at 20% DV and iron at 10% DV, a notably high protein count for a meatless deli product. Sodium runs high at 711mg per 100g, so it helps to build a sandwich around these slices with plain bread and fresh vegetables rather than salted condiments or cured extras.

Frequently asked questions about luncheon slices

How many calories are in meatless luncheon slices?

A 100g portion has 189 calories.

Are meatless luncheon slices a good source of protein?

Yes, a 100g serving provides 17.8g of protein, about 36% of the Daily Value.

How are meatless luncheon slices typically eaten?

They're eaten cold on sandwiches like deli meat, or pan-fried briefly to crisp the edges.

View the USDA source record